By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
Dr. Laura Delgado
Dr. Laura Delgado was searching for a school superintendent position shortly after she completed her Doctorate Degree at Illinois State University earlier this year, and that search led her to Geneseo. She was named Superintendent of the Geneseo Community Unit School District in April.
When asked about her interest in the Geneseo School District, she said, “I knew I wanted to find a community that felt like the ‘right fit’ for me and my family. While I interviewed for multiple positions, nothing felt quite right. When Geneseo opened up, I drove up to the area and instantly felt like the community was a place I could call home.”
She added that she “loves the small-town feel, but also the welcoming nature of the community and the clear commitment to family and education.”
When asked: “What’s ahead? What do you see in the future for Geneseo Schools?” Dr. Delgado answered, “I am looking forward to continuing the tradition of excellence that clearly exists in the Geneseo School District. It is my goal to continue to lift and support what is going well and problem-solve through areas that may need lifting.
I am most excited to learn more this year as I spend time in schools with students, teachers, and support staff. I am looking forward to learning about programs that make Geneseo exceptional, including (but not limited to) life skills, fine arts, athletics, FFA and CTE programs. I hope to continue to grow our enrollment as we take pride in being a ‘destination district’ for families in the area.”
When asked: “What is most enjoyable or exciting about your position/career?” Dr. Delgado replied, “I love meeting new people, connecting with their passions, and working on solving problems. I am a student-centered leader and the main focus of my work is always what is best for students. I love the complexities and nuances of running a school district and look forward to continuing to grow in this role.”
And: What’s the least enjoyable - ups and downs of your career?” She said, “This career, like most, has its ups and downs. I want to design systems that support students and staff, but sometimes you have to have difficult conversations or make decisions that are not popular with everyone. As long as we continue to center what is best for students, I can weather those ups and downs.”
Delgado and her husband, Rafael Delgado, is a project manager for commercial facilities with Growmark and Dr. Delgado said, “He designs and manages projects for co-ops across the state. Luckily, he works from home most of the time, so moving to Geneseo was possible for our family.”
The couple has one son, Xavier Delgado, a sophomore at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. His mother said,” He is studying education and plays on the Loras Football team. We are proud parents and have loved watching him grow into an incredible young man.”
Dr. Delgado’s education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education - Eastern Michigan University (1995)
Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology - Eastern Michigan University (2002)
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration - Illinois State University (2017)
Doctor of Education Degree w/Superintendent Endorsement - ISU (2024)
Dr. Delgado’s work history:
2021-2025 Director of Elementary Education - Bloomington District 87 (Bloomington)
2013-2021 Principal, elementary teacher, instructional coach - McLean County Unit 5 (Normal)
1999-2013 Elementary Teacher - Ann Arbor Public Schools (Ann Arbor, MI)
Prior to this I taught preschool at a private school and a few years in Howell, MI.
Professional certifications and credentials include:
-Superintendent Endorsement, PK-12, State of Illinois.
-Working on CSBO Endorsement, State of Illinois.
-Administrative Endorsement PK-12.
-Professional Educator License, Elementary Education, Grades K-9 (self-contained, All Subjects).
-Teacher Evaluator Training.
-Principal Evaluator Training.